CROW provides update on gull rescued on causeway
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) provided an update on a laughing gull admitted for treatment after it was found entangled in discarded fishing line at the Causeway Islands Park.
CROW reported that partner Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) was monitoring the causeway on Aug. 4 when it discovered the bird in distress — entangled in fishing line, with a fishing hook lodged in its mouth. It was quickly transported to CROW for urgent care.
Upon examination, CROW found the hook with a short line embedded in the back of the gull’s mouth — passing through the delicate tissue just behind the glottis and exiting near the base of the tongue. The area showed mild bruising and inflammation. The bird also had damaged tail feathers and a minor injury on its left wing, most likely a result of its struggle while attempting to free itself from the line.
“Our medical team was able to successfully remove the hook and started the gull on immediate pain medication and antibiotics to start the healing process,” CROW shared.
As of Aug. 8, the bird was eating on its own.
It is also enjoying supervised tub time and outdoor recess during its recovery.
“This is a clear example of the dangers fishing gear can pose to wildlife,” CROW shared.
The public is asked to remember to:
– Properly dispose of fishing lines and hooks.
– Retrieve lost tackle whenever possible.
– Be aware of wildlife around fishing spots.
CROW added that if you notice an animal swallowed a fishing hook, do not cut the line and leave the animal. Contact CROW at 239-472-3644, ext. 222, or a local wildlife rehabilitation for guidance.
“Unfortunately, wildlife entanglement is a common situation on our beaches,” the SCCF shared. “But you can help prevent the next close call by properly disposing of used fishing line at a designated recycling station, such as our Mind Your Line stations located across Sanibel and surrounding areas.”
There are four monofilament recycling stations located on the causeway.
“Alternatively, you can cut lines into small pieces before discarding it in the trash,” it added.
For a map of the recycling stations on the islands, visit https://mindyourline.org/recycling-stations.